Custodial interrogations; length, recording. (SB734)

Introduced By

Progress

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Introduced

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Passed Committee

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Passed House

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Passed Senate

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Signed by Governor

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Became Law

Description

Custodial interrogations; length; recording. Provides that any law-enforcement officer shall, if practicable, make an audiovisual recording of any custodial interrogation of a person conducted in a place of detention. The bill provides that the failure to make such a recording does not affect the admissibility of statements made during the custodial interrogation, but the court shall consider or shall instruct the jury to consider such failure in determining the weight given to such evidence. The bill also requires the Department of Criminal Justice Services to establish, publish, and disseminate a model policy or guideline for law-enforcement personnel for the recording of custodial interrogations. The bill further provides that the length of any custodial interrogation shall not be unreasonable and the person who is subject to such interrogation shall be permitted reasonable periods for rest and personal necessities. Amends § 9.1-102, of the Code of Virginia.Read the Bill »